What Independence Taught Me

Today is my ninth month living on my own in an apartment. I’ve been asked about the WHYs and the HOWs but the most interesting question was: “Don’t you ever get lonely? Aren’t you scared?” Yes, it does get scary. It does get lonely. However, it’s overcoming the fear and loneliness that makes independence fulfilling. It’s knowing that you can make things happen (no matter how daunting that is) and you’re going to be just fine. Since I moved out, I’ve been learning a lot and I’ve come to realize there’s more to independence than just overcoming my fears:

Independence is inviting your friends over and cooking for them instead of partying out

Independence is making conscious decisions on what you spend your money on when doing the groceries.

Independence is paying the bills on time.

Independence is cleaning the dishes, washing your clothes, and sweeping the floor every morning.

Independence is waking up early, making the bed and preparing your breakfast.

Independence is learning to cook your meals and making sure they’re good for you.

Independence is throwing the trash in their proper bins in the morning.

Independence is choosing who you let inside your home and taking responsibility for it.

Independence is taking care of your body because you’ll be living in it for the rest of your life.

I still have a long way to go with this independent living thing. But one thing I will always remember is that independence without responsibility is chaos. Having the freedom to do whatever you want may be every millenial’s dream but it can also turn into a disaster.

When you’re independent, you have the freedom to choose. So choose well — even if it scares you.

To anyone who’s reading this, may we all find our freedom and use it wisely. Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan. Mabuhay tayong lahat.